TS 42 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing philosophy of the TS 42 is centered on the "pleasure of the helm," a rarity in the catamaran world. Most hulls in this size range utilize a bulkhead-mounted wheel that isolates the sailor from the water; conversely, the TS 42 is famous for its twin aft tiller steering stations. This configuration provides the direct, tactile feedback of a performance monohull while allowing the helmsperson to sit outboard with a clear view of the sails and the sea. According to technical assessments by Multihulls World, the boat is capable of maintaining speeds in the mid-teens with ease, frequently matching or exceeding true wind speed in light to moderate conditions.

The performance is a direct result of a high sail area-to-displacement ratio and the use of deep, retractable daggerboards. These boards allow the TS 42 to point significantly higher than fixed-keel catamarans, reaching tacking angles of roughly 90 degrees. The hull form is narrow at the waterline to reduce drag but flares outward above the water to provide internal volume. This "waisted" design ensures that the boat remains "racy yet comfortable," as noted in the Marsaudon Composites overview. Handling is further enhanced by the centralization of heavy weights, such as the engines and tanks, which reduces pitching in a seaway and contributes to a remarkably balanced motion.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the TS 42 is unashamedly performance-oriented, the interior is designed for functional living during extended cruises. The "open" bridgedeck concept blurs the line between the cockpit and the salon, utilizing large sliding doors to create a singular, ventilated living space. The aesthetic is often described as "monastic" or "utilitarian-chic," utilizing painted composite surfaces rather than heavy wood liners to save weight. This minimalist approach is not merely stylistic; every kilogram saved in the furniture is a kilogram that can be translated into sail area or safety gear.

The vessel was typically offered in three main configurations:

• The Owner’s Version: Features a dedicated hull for the master suite, including a large double berth, desk space, and a generous head with a separate shower.
• The Three-Cabin Layout: A balance between private ownership and the ability to host guests, with the port hull split into two double cabins.
• The Four-Cabin Layout: Rare for this model but occasionally commissioned for high-performance chartering, placing two cabins in each hull.

The sibling models built on this design philosophy include the larger TS 5 (now the ORC 50) and the more recent ORC 57. While the TS 42 is the smallest of the lineage, it shares the same structural DNA as its larger siblings, emphasizing carbon-fiber reinforcements in high-load areas and an infusion-molding process that ensures a high glass-to-resin ratio.

Popular Mentions & Media

The TS 42 has gained a cult following among offshore racers who have transitioned to cruising. It is a frequent sight in "rally-race" events such as the ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers), where it often finishes days ahead of larger, more luxurious multihulls. The boat's reputation was solidified by its ability to maintain 20-knot bursts, a feat documented by various performance-sailing journalists. Its rebranding to the ORC 42 (Ocean Rider Catamaran) was a strategic move to better align the boat with its identity as a vessel built for the "Ocean Rider," a sailor who prioritizes the journey and the speed of transit over marina-based amenities.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a used TS 42/ORC 42 requires a different set of priorities compared to a standard cruising cat. Because these boats are often sailed hard, a specialized survey is recommended.

• Weight Management: The most common "issue" is not a fault of the builder, but of subsequent owners. Adding heavy equipment like large generators, washing machines, or extensive teak decking can destroy the boat's performance characteristics. Buyers should check the current waterline against the original design specifications.
• Daggerboard Trunks: Inspect the trunks for signs of stress or wear in the sacrificial "crash boxes" at the bottom of the trunks. Ensure the boards raise and lower smoothly without excessive play.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Given the high loads generated by the boat's speed and lack of heel, the standing rigging and its attachment points should be scrutinized for any signs of fatigue or stress cracking in the gelcoat.
• Finish Longevity: The minimalist interior uses high-quality paints rather than veneers. Prospective buyers should look for areas where "working" of the boat may have caused cosmetic hair-line cracks in the interior finish, which are usually non-structural but require maintenance.

Community & Resources

Owners of the TS 42 benefit from the robust support of Grand Large Yachting, which provides a centralized point for technical resources and parts. The ORC brand has a dedicated following that often gathers for the "Grand Large Yachting Day" and other owner-exclusive regattas, fostering a community of speed-oriented cruisers. Technical documentation and original build specs are often archived within the shipyard’s Lorient headquarters.

The Verdict

The TS 42 is not a boat for everyone. It is a specialized tool designed for the sailor who values the wind in their face and a responsive helm over a dishwasher and a flybridge. For those coming from a performance monohull background who are unwilling to sacrifice the "feel" of sailing for the stability of a multihull, it is arguably one of the finest 40-footers ever produced.

Pros:

• Exceptional speed and light-air performance.
• Direct feedback via twin tiller steering.
• High-quality composite construction using vacuum infusion.
• Capable of true windward sailing thanks to deep daggerboards.

Cons:

• Minimalist interior may feel "cold" or "unfinished" to some.
• Higher maintenance requirements for daggerboards and performance rigging.
• Performance is highly sensitive to excess weight.
• Limited protection at the helm stations compared to bulkhead-steering models.